Premier League clubs urge Government to return fans to stadiums in fortnight

Premier League clubs are urging the Government to give the go-ahead for fans to return in just a fortnight.

The 20 clubs met on Thursday to discuss a way forward to get supporters back into stadiums from October 1 and issued a statement insisting stadiums will be safe.

It comes amid deep concerns from the Government who have already pushed back on test events and limited supporters to just 1,000 fans.

But Premier League bosses have warned the loss of gate revenues is “having a significant impact” and claimed grounds will be “bio-secure, safe environments for fans across the League.”

The Government will now decide on whether to allow Premier League clubs to let fans back in as planned but, amid local lockdowns and rising infection rates, the concern is also about transport.

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The Premier League statement said: “Taking into account the high safety standards which will be set by the Premier League in conjunction with the relevant public authorities, the League and clubs urge Government to remain committed to the 1 October date for the controlled return of fans to sporting venues.”

Meanwhile, the Premier League have secured a new media deal in China after the collapse of the £564m TV deal with PPTV earlier this month.

They signed a deal with digital broadcaster Tencent and viewers can watch across their digital platforms.

Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters said: “We are excited to have agreed this partnership with Tencent ensuring our supporters in China can enjoy following Premier League action throughout this season.

“We and our clubs have an extremely passionate fanbase in China and are looking forward to working with the team at Tencent to engage with fans in new ways over the coming season.”

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